Why You’ll Love This Custard Pudding
This recipe is a total winner because it’s:
- Super creamy and smooth
- Light but rich
- Easy to make
- Budget friendly
- Made with pantry staples
- Great warm or chilled
- Perfect make-ahead dessert
- Crowd pleasing
It tastes luxurious without being complicated.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the pudding
- 4 cups whole milk
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For topping
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg
- Whipped cream (optional)
That’s it. Simple, classic ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a baking dish or casserole pan.
Set aside.
Step 2 – Warm the Milk
Heat milk in a saucepan over medium heat.
Do not boil.
Just warm until steamy.
Warm milk helps create a silky custard texture.
Step 3 – Mix the Custard Base
In a large bowl whisk:
Eggs
Sugar
Cornstarch
Salt
Whisk until smooth.
Add melted butter and vanilla.
Mix again.
Step 4 – Combine Milk and Eggs
Slowly pour warm milk into the egg mixture.
Whisk constantly.
This prevents scrambling.
You want a smooth liquid custard.
Step 5 – Bake
Pour mixture into prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle cinnamon on top.
Place dish in oven.
Bake 40–50 minutes.
Top becomes golden brown.
Center should jiggle slightly.
It will firm up as it cools.
Step 6 – Cool
Let cool at room temperature.
Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Cooling helps set the custard.
Texture becomes perfectly creamy.
Step 7 – Serve
Slice into squares.
Top with whipped cream.
Dust with extra cinnamon.
Serve chilled or slightly warm.
Pro Tips for Perfect Custard
Use whole milk for richness.
Whisk constantly when adding milk.
Don’t overbake.
Let it cool completely before slicing.
These small tips make a huge difference.
Flavor Variations
Want to customize it?
Add orange zest
Add coconut flakes
Use brown sugar
Add caramel drizzle
Mix in raisins
Top with berries
This dessert is easy to adapt.
Storage Tips
Store covered in fridge up to 4 days.
Tastes even better the next day.
Great for meal prep desserts.
Do not freeze.
When to Serve This Dessert
Perfect for:
Family dinners
Ramadan or holiday tables
Potlucks
Weekend treats
Make-ahead desserts
Comfort food nights
It always disappears fast.
Why This Recipe Works
Eggs create structure.
Cornstarch thickens smoothly.
Milk adds creaminess.
Butter adds richness.
Slow baking ensures soft texture.
Everything works together beautifully.
The result is silky, rich, and perfectly balanced.
Final Thoughts
This creamy baked custard pudding is simple, classic, and unbelievably comforting. It’s the kind of dessert that reminds you of home, family, and warm kitchens. Soft, rich, and topped with whipped cream, every bite feels cozy and satisfying.